How Microsoft Will Use Skype

By IBT Staff Reporter On 05/10/11 AT 12:11 PM

This one is obvious. From its inception, Skype has always been software for the PC, first and foremost. Future releases of Windows 7 may have Skype fully integrated, straight out of the package. This likely would include the standard features of voice and video calling, instant messaging and file sharing. Photo: REUTERS

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Microsoft has bought Skype for $8.5 billion in cash making a huge play in the video and voice calling industry. By bringing aboard Skype, Microsoft is getting an established player in an increasingly competitive market. Skype has 170 million connected users and logged over 207 billion minutes of voice and video conversations in 2010.

Furthermore, with Skype's software for PCs, tablets and smartphones, Microsoft will be able to integrate it across numerous platforms. Here are a few places where you are likely to see Microsoft's Skype pop up.

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